Palm Beach Daily News / The Shiny Sheet: “Plaza brimming with businesses”

Storefronts at the Royal Poinciana Plaza are almost fully occupied as the historic shopping center prepares for its first full season since being revitalized.

Operators of the plaza announced last week a wave of 12 businesses are planning to open this fall, including a local organic market and a local wine academy.  Including several brands announced last spring and the existing tenants, the plaza is 95 percent leased with just two spaces left, according to the management team.

“It’s all about the right opportunity and the right location,” said Alex Celis, a co-owner of Celis Produce, a boutique organic market and juice bar.

Celis and his brothers, Felipe and Camilo, currently operate a store on South Dixie Highway in West Palm Beach.  He said they couldn’t pass on a chance to expand to the island.

“There’s a lot of opportunity to grown on the island,” Celis said.  “With the north bridge opening up, all of the interesting things happening at the Royal_ it’s a really good energy.  It’s going to be a destination spot like Worth Avenue during season.  It’s going to be an all-day event, a place where you can eat, grab snacks, hang out.”

Celis Produce offers juices, smoothies, acai bowls and organic produce.  The business also sells curated, healthy grocery and pantry items.  Celis said he plans to open in October in the former Gucci location.  The brothers are working on a special Gucci-themed smoothie or bowl, Celis said. Virginia Philip Wine, Spirits & Academy also will be joining the plaza.  Philip, who has a home on the island, was the 11th woman in the world to earn master sommelier status in 2002 and since then has won numerous awards.  She’s currently wine director at The Breakers.